The bill aims to amend sections 955.54 and 959.99 of the Revised Code and enact section 959.23, focusing on increasing penalties for companion animal cruelty offenses and restricting felony animal abuse offenders from owning companion animals. Specifically, it prohibits individuals convicted of felony offenses of violence or felony animal abuse from owning or residing with certain types of dogs for three years following their release from incarceration or conviction. Additionally, the bill mandates that such individuals microchip any dogs in their custody for permanent identification.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new definitions and stipulations regarding animal abuse offenses and companion animals. It establishes that individuals convicted of felony animal abuse offenses cannot own or have custody of companion animals for three years post-conviction. The penalties for violating animal cruelty laws are also heightened, with specific provisions for repeat offenders, including mandatory prison terms for certain violations. The existing sections 955.54 and 959.99 are repealed, and the new legal language reflects these changes to enhance the protection of companion animals in Ohio.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 955.54, 959.99